TRANSFER
-1-
•••
••
THE NATIVITY OF OUR
LORD JESUS CHRIST.
FROM
THE MEDITATIONS OF
ANNE CATHERINE EMMERICH.
EX LIBRIS
ST. BASIL'S SCHOLASTIC*
TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH
BY
GEORGE RICHARDSON.
/ /
H *
Xon&on : JBimie Si ©atcs,
, Cincinnati, dbicago : Seiijfger Krotbece.
1899.
'JAN -2 'q53
©betat:
CHARLES POYER.
Imprimatur :
HERBERTUS,
Card. Archiep. Westmonast.
12 Nov.,
preface*
As I am now more than eighty-six
years old I don't think it probable
that I shall attempt any more trans
lations of Sister Emmerich's revela
tions. I wish, therefore, to say a few
words about dear Sister Emmerich
before parting. I have read through
her revelations several times during
the last sixty years, and I have more
frequently read through the New
Testament, and have never been
able to detect the slightest opposi
tion between them.
The discovery of the House of
the Blessed Virgin near Ephesus,
exactly corresponding with Sister
Emmerich's description of it, has
given a new impetus to the desire
IPretace.
to read her revelations. This dis
covery will lead, no doubt, in God's
good time, to the finding of our
Lady's Tomb, the scene of her
glorious Assumption.
The statements made by Sister
Emmerich must be regarded only as
those of a devout Nun, and must
not be confounded with statements
of facts supported by the testimony
of the Church.
GEORGE RICHARDSON.
Alma Park, L evens hulme.
1899.
THE NATIVITY
Of Our £ora Jesus CDrist at
BetbicDem,
THE MARRIAGE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN.
THE HOLY VIRGIN lived in the Temple
with several other virgins under the
charge of pious matrons.
These virgins were occupied with em
broidery and other works of the same
kind for the hangings of the Temple
and the vestments of the priests : they
were also employed in washing the vest
ments and in other matters pertaining
to the divine worship. They had little
cells whence they had a view of the in
terior of the Temple, and where they
2
2 ZTbe IRativitt? ot
prayed and meditated. When they were
arrived at a marriageable age they mar
ried. Their parents had given them en
tirely to God in conducting them to the
Temple, and there was among the most
pious of the Israelites a secret presenti
ment that one of these marriages would
be the cause some day of the coming of
the Messiah.
The Blessed Virgin being fourteen
years old, and about soon to leave the
Temple and be married, with seven other
young girls, I saw St. Anne come to visit
her. Joachim was no •i nger living.
When they informed Mary that she must
leave the Temple and be married, I saw
her deeply moved, declare to a priest that
she had no desire to quit the Temple,
that she was consecrated to God alone,
and had no inclination for marriage : but
they told her she must take a husband.
I saw her afterwards in her oratory
©uv Xorfc Jesus Christ. 3
pray to God with fervour. I remember
also that being very thirsty she de
scended with her little pitcher to draw
water from a fountain or a reservoir,
and that there, without any visible ap
parition, she heard a voice which con
soled and fortified her, at the same time
making known to her that she must con
sent to be married.
I saw also a very old priest who was
unable to walk — it might be the High
Priest. He was carried by other priests
into the Holy of Holies, and, whilst he
lighted the jrifice of incense he read
some prayers from a roll of parchment
placed on a kind of pulpit. I saw him
in an ecstasy. He had a vision, and his
finger was placed on the following passage
out of the Prophet Isaiah which was
written on the roll : "A branch shall arise
from the root of Jesse and a flower shall
spring from this root" (Isaiah ix. i).
4 Ube matfvitp of
When the old priest returned to himself
he read this passage and knew something
by this.
I then saw that messengers were sent
to all parts of the country, and that they
convoked to the Temple all the men of
the race of David who were unmarried.
When many of them were assembled in
the Temple in their festival dress, they
were presented to the Blessed Virgin.
I then saw the High Priest, obedient
to an interior impulse which he had re
ceived, present branches to each of those
present, and tell them to mark each one
a branch with his name and hold it in
his hand during the prayer and sacrifice.
When they had done as required the
branches were taken from them and
placed upon an altar before the Holy of
Holies, and it was announced to them
that he among them whose branch
should flourish was designed by the
Xorfc Jesus (Ibrtet. 5
Lord to be the husband of Mary of
Nazareth.
Whilst the branches were before the
Holy of Holies they continued the sacri
fice and the prayer; then after the time
fixed, they gave back the branches and
announced to them that no one of them
was designed by God to become the
husband of this virgin.
Afterwards the priests of the Temple
sought afresh in the registers of families
if no other descendant of David was in
existence whom they had overlooked.
As they there found an indication of six
brothers of Bethlehem, of whom one was.
unknown and had been absent for a long
time, they inquired after the abode of
Joseph, and discovered him a short dis
tance from Samaria, in a place situated
near a small river, where he dwelt on the
margin of the water, working for a master
carpenter.
6 ZTbe 1Ratfv>ft£ of
On the order of the High Priest Joseph
came to Jerusalem and presented himself
at the Temple. They made him also hold
in his hand a branch while they prayed
and offered sacrifice. As he was offering
to place it on the altar before the Holy of
Holies, there came out from it a white
flower like a lily, and a luminous appari
tion descended upon him. It was as if
he had received the Holy Ghost. They
knew then that St. Joseph was the man
designed by God to be the spouse of the
Blessed Virgin, and the priests presented
him to Mary in the presence of her
mother. Mary, resigned to the will of
God, humbly accepted him as her spouse,
for she knew that everything is possible
with God, who had received her vow of
belonging only to Him.
<S>ur Xorfc Jesus Cbrtst. 7
CONCERNING THE MARRIAGE AND THE
WEDDING DRESS OF MARY AND JOSEPH.
SISTER EMMERICH, in her daily visions on
the ministry of Our Lord, saw on Monday
the 24th of September, 1821, Jesus teach
ing in the synagogue of Gophna, and
there staying with the family of a chief
of the synagogue, a relative of Joachim.
She heard on this occasion two widows,
daughters of this man, conversing together
on the marriage of the parents of Jesus, at
which they had assisted in their youth,
with other relatives, and she communi
cated what follows. As the two widows
referred in their conversation to the
marriage of Mary and Joseph, I saw a
picture of the marriage, and I was struck
with the beauty of the nuptial dress of the
Holy Virgin. The marriage of Mary and
Joseph, which was kept up for seven or
eight days, was celebrated at Jerusalem,
in a house near Mount Sion, which
ZTbe 1Flativ>tts of
was frequently let for similar occasions.
Besides the witnesses and companions of
Mary in the School of the Temple, there
were many relatives of Anne and Joachim,
and amongst others a family of Gophna,
with two daughters. The marriage was
solemn and sumptuous. Many lambs
were killed and offered in sacrifice. I
saw Mary very distinctly in her bridal
dress. She had a very large gown, open
in front, with large sleeves. This gown
had a blue ground strewed with red, white,
and yellow roses, intermingled with green
leaves, like the rich chasubles of ancient
times — the lower border was trimmed
with fringe and tassels. Over her dress
she wore a mantle of celestial blue, which
had the appearance of a large sheet.
Besides this mantle, the Jewish women
frequently carry also on certain occasions
a species of mourning mantle with sleeves
—the mantle of Mary fell back over her
shoulders and terminated in a train.
©ur Xorfc Jesus Cbrist, 9
She carried in her left hand a small
crown of red and white roses made of
silk. In her right hand she held, in form
of a sceptre,- a beautiful gilt candlestick,
without a foot, surmounted by a little
dish where something was burning, which
produced a white flame.
The virgins of the Temple arranged the
hair of Mary — many of them were en
gaged at it, and it was done in an in
credibly short time. Anne had brought
the wedding dress, and Mary, in her
humility, would not consent to wear it
after her marriage — her hair was fas
tened round her head, and they put on
her a white veil, which hung below her
shoulders, and a crown was placed over
this veil. The Holy Virgin had an abun
dance of hair of a light gold colour ; her
eyebrows black and elevated ; large eyes,
habitually cast down, with long black eye
lashes ; a nose of a beautiful form, rather
io Ube IRatixntp of
long ; a noble and graceful mouth, and a
slender chin. She was of middle stature.
She walked, clad in her rich costume, with
much grace, elegance, and gravity. She
afterwards put on for her marriage another
dress, less splendid, of which I possess a
small piece among my relics. She wore
this striped dress at Cana and on other
solemn occasions. She sometimes put on
her marriage dress to go to the Temple.
There were rich people who changed their
dress three or four times for their marriage.
In her dress of ceremony Mary rather
resembled certain illustrious ladies of later
times ; for instance, the Empress St. Helen
and even St. Cunegonda, though she dif
fered from them in the cloak which Jewish
women usually wear, and which more
resembled that of the Roman ladies.
There were at Sion, in the neighbour
hood of the cenacle, a certain number of
women who prepared beautiful stuffs —
Xorfc Jesus Cbrist n
all kinds — which I remarked in conse
quence of these dresses.
Joseph had a long and very wide robe
of a blue colour ; the sleeves, which were
very large, were fastened at the side with
strings. Round the neck he wore a kind
of brown collar, or rather a large stole,
and over his breast two white bands hung
down. I have seen all the ceremonies of
the marriage of St. Joseph and the
Blessed Virgin — the marriage feast and
other solemnities.
MARY'S MARRIAGE RING.
ON the 29th of July, 1821, Sister-
Emmerich had a vision on the grave
clothes of our Lord Jesus Christ, and
the wonderful prints of His body, which
showed themselves miraculously upon the
winding sheet in which He had been
12 Hbe 1ftati\nt£ of
wrapped. As on this occasion she found
herself conducted to several places, where
these holy relics were found, some re
ligiously preserved, others forgotten by
men and honoured only by the angels
or certain holy souls, she believed that
she saw preserved in one of these places
the marriage ring of the Blessed Virgin,
and she then related as follows :
I have seen the marriage ring of the
Blessed Virgin. It is neither silver, nor
gold, nor any other metal : it is of a dark
colour with changing reflections ; it is not
a small circle, it is as thick and as wide as
a finger. I saw it quite smooth and still,
as if encrusted with small regular tri
angles where there were letters. I saw it
kept under several locks in a beautiful
church — there were some pious people,
who before celebrating their marriage
touched their marriage rings with it.
On the 2ist of August, 1821, she said :
©ur Xorfc Jesus Gbrist. 13
I have learned during the last few days
many details relative to the history of
the marriage ring of Mary, but I cannot
relate them all in order. I have seen to
day a festival in a church in Italy where
it is found. It is exposed in a kind of
monstrance, which was placed above the
tabernacle. There was there a large
altar, richly decorated, with many orna
ments in silver. I saw that they touched
the monstrance with several rings.
I saw during the festival, on the two
sides of the ring, Mary and Joseph appear
in their bridal dresses. It seemed to me
that St. Joseph placed the ring on the
finger of the Blessed Virgin. I saw the
ring all luminous and as if in motion.*
* When the writer wrote this on the 4th
of August, 1821, he could not understand
why the Sister had this vision precisely on
the 3rd of August. He was much surprised
many years afterwards when he read in a
Latin writing on the ring of the Blessed
14 ZTbe 1Ratit>it£ ot
When the marriage was finished Anne
returned to Nazareth and Mary departed
also, in company of several virgins who
had quitted the Temple at the same time
as she did. I do not know how far these
virgins conducted her on her way. The
first place at which they stayed to pass
the night was at the School of the Levites
at Betheron. Many made the journey on
foot. Joseph, after the marriage, went to
Bethlehem to regulate some family affairs.
It was not until later that he returned to
Nazareth.
Virgin, preserved at Perouse, that they ex
hibited this ring to the people on the 3rd of
August, of which probably neither he nor
the Sister knew anything. He found this
information on page 39 of the writing en
titled, " Of the Marriage Ring of the Blessed
Virgin, Mother of God, religiously preserved
at Perouse" (The Commentator of S. B.
Laurus of Perouse, 1626).
SLorfc Jesus (Tbrfst. 15
FROM THE RETURN OF MARY TO THE
ANNUNCIATION.
BEFORE relating the vision of the An
nunciation the Sister communicated two
fragments of previous visions, of which
we can only offer a conjectural explana
tion. Being still very feeble through the
effects of a serious illness, she related
what follows some time after the mar
riage of the Blessed Virgin and St.
Joseph.
There was a festival in the house of
St. Anne, and some children assembled
wijh Joseph and Mary round a table on
which were placed some glasses.
The Blessed Virgin had a striped
mantle with red, blue, and white flowers,
as we see on ancient chasubles. She
wore a transparent veil, and above this a
black veil. This fete appeared to be
connected with the marriage festivities.
She related no more on this subject,
16 Tlbe IRativnts ot
and we can only suppose that this repast
took place when the Blessed Virgin
left her mother, after the arrival of St.
Joseph, and retired with him into the
house at Nazareth. The following day
she related what follows.
To-night in my contemplation I sought
for the Blessed Virgin, and my conductor
led me into the house of St. Anne, every
part of which I recognised. I found
there neither Joseph nor Mary. I saw
St. Anne preparing to go to Nazareth,
where the Holy Family was now residing.
She carried under her arm a packet
which she was taking to Mary. She
went to Nazareth, crossing a plain and a
little wood placed on an eminence. I
went there also. The house of St. Joseph
was not far from the gate of the city. It
was not so large as the house of St.
Anne. A square well, which was down
some steps, was in the neighbourhood,
Xorfc Jesus Cbrfst, 17
and there was before the house a small
square court. I saw St. Anne visit the
Blessed Virgin, to whom she gave what
she had brought with her. I saw Mary
weep very much, and for some time ac
company her mother who was returning
to her home. I saw St. Joseph in front
of the house in a secluded spot.
We may gather from these fragments
that Anne visited for the first time her
daughter at Nazareth, and brought her a
present. Mary, who now lived by herself,
separated from her well-beloved mother,
shed tears of tenderness in parting from
her.
THE ANNUNCIATION.
ON the 25th of March, 1821, the Sister
said :
I saw the Blessed Virgin soon after her
marriage, in the house of Joseph at
1 8 Ube 1Ratf\?ft£ ot
Nazareth, to which my guide conducted
me. Joseph had departed with two asses.
I think it was to fetch something that he
had inherited, or to bring the tools of his
trade. He seemed to me still on his
journey.
Besides the Blessed Virgin and two
young women of her own age, who had
been, I believe, her companions in the
Temple, I saw in the house St. Anne
with the widow, her relative, who was in
her service, and who later on followed
her to Bethlehem after the birth of Jesus.
St. Anne had renewed everything in the
house.
I saw the four women walking about
in the house, and then walk together in
the court. Towards evening I saw them
re-enter and pray standing round a little
round table, after which they ate some
herbs which had been brought there.
They separated afterwards. St. Anne
©ur %orfc Jesus Cbrist. 19
still went about here and there in the
house, like the mother of a family en
gaged in her duties. The two young
persons went into their separate cham
bers, and Mary also retired into her own.
The chamber of the Blessed Virgin
was at the back of the house, near the
fireplace ; it was reached by three steps,
for the ground at this part of the house
was higher than the rest, and on a rocky
foundation. Opposite the door the cham
ber was round, and in this circular part,
which was separated by a partition of the
height of a man, was the bed of the
Blessed Virgin, rolled up. The walls of
the chamber were covered to a certain
height with a kind of inlaid work, made
of pieces of wood, of different colours.
The ceiling was formed by parallel joists,
the spaces between which were filled with
wicker work, ornamented with figures of
stars.
20 zibe 1Rati\nt£ of
I was conducted into this chamber by
the young man of shining appearance
who always accompanies me,* and I will
relate what I saw as well as such a
wretched person as I am can do.
The Blessed Virgin on entering
dressed herself, behind the screen of her
bed, in a long robe of white wool, with a
large belt, and covered her head with a
veil of light yellow. In the meantime
the servant entered with a light, lighted a
lamp with several branches which hung
from the ceiling, and retired. The Blessed
Virgin then took a little low table which
stood against the wall, and placed it in
the middle of her chamber. It was
covered with a red and blue cloth, in
the middle of which a figure was em
broidered. I cannot say whether it was
a letter or an ornament. A roll of parch
ment, written upon, was on the table.
* Her guardian angel.
5esus Christ. 21
The Blessed Virgin having arranged it,
between the place of her bed and the
door, on a spot where the floor was
covered with a carpet, placed before it
a small round cushion on which to kneel.
She then knelt down, her two hands
leaning upon the table. The door of the
chamber was in front of her, to the right.
She turned her back to her couch.
Mary let down the veil over her face,
and joined her hands before her breast,
but without crossing the ringers. I saw her
pray for a long time with great ardour, her
face turned towards heaven. She invoked
the redemption, the coming of the King
promised to the people of Israel, and she
asked also to have some part in this
coming. She remained a long time on
her knees transported in ecstasy. She
then bent her head over her breast.
Then from the ceiling of the chamber
descended, on her right side, in a slightly
22 ftbe 1ftat(\nt£ of
oblique direction, such a mass of light that
I was obliged to turn myself towards the
court, where the door was placed. I saw
then in this light a resplendent young man,
with white flowing hair, descend before her,
through the air. It was the Angel Gabriel.
He spoke to her, and I saw the words
come from his mouth like letters of fire.
I read them and understood them. Mary
slightly turned her veiled head to the right
side. Notwithstanding, in her modesty
she did not look at him. The angel con
tinued to speak. Mary turned her face
on one side, as if in obedience to an order,
slightly raised her veil, and replied. The
angel spoke again. Mary completely
raised her veil, looked at the angel, and
pronounced the sacred words : " Behold
the handmaid of the Lord ; be it done to
me according to thy word."
The Blessed Virgin was in a profound
ecstasy ; the chamber was full of light. I
©ut Xorfc 3esus Gbrist. 23
saw no more the light of the lamp which
was burning, neither did I see the ceiling
of the room. Heaven appeared to be
open ; my observation followed the lumin
ous way above the angel. I saw at the
extremity of this river of light the Holy
Trinity. It was like a luminous triangle
whose rays reciprocally penetrated each
ether. I then recognised what we must
adore, but can never express — the om
nipotent God, Father, Son, and Holy
Ghost, and yet one only God Almighty.
When the Holy Virgin had said, " Be it
done to me according to thy word," I saw
a winged apparition of the Holy Spirit,
which, however, had not completely the
ordinary representation under the form of
a dove. The head had something like the
human face ; the light spread out on both
sides like wings, and I saw come from it as
it were three luminous streams towards the
right side of the Blessed Virgin, where they
24 Ube 1Ratfv>ft£ of
were reunited ; then this light penetrated
her right side, the Blessed Virgin herself
became luminous, and as if transparent :
it seemed as if everything that was
opaque in her retired before this light, as
night before the day. She was at this
moment so inundated with light that
nothing in her appeared obscure or
opaque ; she was resplendent and as if
completely illuminated.
I afterwards saw the angel disappear; the
luminous ray from which he had emerged
retired ; it was as if heaven drew it in and
caused to re-enter into itself this flood of
light.
After the disappearance of the angel I
saw the Blessed Virgin in a profound
ecstasy and altogether recollected in her
self. I saw that she knew and adored the
Incarnation of the Saviour in herself,
where He was as a small luminous human
body, completely formed, and provided
Xorfc Jesus Cbrtst. 25
with all His members. Here at Nazareth
everything is completely otherwise than at
Jerusalem. At Jerusalem the women
have to remain in the vestibule, they
cannot enter into the Temple — priests
only have access to the sanctuary — but
at Nazareth it is a virgin, who is herself
the Temple. The Holy of Holies is with
in her, the High Priest is within her, and
she is alone with Him. How touching
and wonderful is this, and yet how simple
and natural. The words of David in the
45th Psalm are accomplished : " God is in
the midst thereof (His tabernacle), and it
shall not be moved." It was a little past
midnight when I saw this mystery. After
some time St. Anne entered into Mary's
room with the other women : a marvellous
movement in nature had awakened them,
a luminous cloud had passed over the
house. When they saw the Blessed
Virgin on her knees under the lamp
3
26 Hbe 1flatfv>ft\? of
transported in ecstasy in prayer, they
respectfully retired.
In contemplating this night the mystery
of the Incarnation I was also instructed
in many other things. Anne received an
interior knowledge of what had been ac
complished.
I learned why the Redeemer would
remain nine months in the womb of His
mother and become an infant ; why He
had not desired to come into the world a
man, like our first father, and show Himself
in all His beauty, like Adam coming from
the hands of his Creator — but I cannot
clearly explain this. That which I now
understand is that He wished to sanctify
again the conception and the birth of
men, which had been so much degraded
by original sin. If Mary became His
mother, and that He did not come sooner,
was that she alone was what no creature
was before or after her, the pure vessel of
XorD Jesus Gbrist. 27
grace which God had promised to men,
and in whom He would become man,
to pay the debt of human nature by
means of the superabundant merits of
His passion. The Blesstd Virgin was the
perfectly pure flower of the human race
unfolded in the fulness of time. All the
children of God amongst men, all those
who since the beginning had laboured
in the work of their sanctification had
contributed to His coming. She was the
only pure gold of the earth. She alone
was the pure and spotless portion of the
flesh and blood of the whole human race,
who, prepared, purified, gathered, and con
secrated through all the generations of her
ancestors, conducted, protected, and for
tified under the regulations of the law of
Moses, was finally produced as the fulness
of grace. She was predestined in eter
nity and she has appeared in time as the
Mother of the Eternal.
28 Ube IRativnts of
The Blessed Virgin was a little more
than fourteen at the time of the Incar
nation of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ ar
rived at the age of thirty-three years and
three times six weeks. I say three times
six because the figure six was shown to me
at this instant, but repeated three times.
When Joseph returned to Nazareth
with the Blessed Virgin after her visit to
her cousin Elizabeth, he saw by her
figure that she was enceinte. He was
then assailed with all sorts of troubles
and doubts, for he knew nothing of the
visit of the angel to Mary. Soon after
his marriage he had gone to Bethlehem
on some family affairs. Mary in the
meantime had returned to Nazareth with
her parents and some companions. The
angelical salutation had taken place be
fore the return of Joseph to Nazareth.
Mary in her timid humility had kept to
herself the secret of God.
Xorfc 3esus Christ. 29
Joseph, full of trouble and anxiety, did
not attempt to learn anything from
without, but struggled in silence against
his doubts. The Blessed Virgin, who had
perceived this, at once was grave and
pensive, which increased still more the
anxiety of Joseph.
When they had arrived at Nazareth I
saw that the Blessed Virgin did not go
at once into the house with St. Joseph.
She remained two days with a family
connected with her own. They were the
parents of the disciple Parmenas, who
was not then born, and who afterwards
became one of the seven deacons in the
first community of Christians at Jeru
salem.
These people were allied to the Holy
Family ; the mother was the sister of
the third husband of Mary Cleophas,
who was the father of Simeon, Bishop
of Jerusalem. They had a house and
30 ZTbe 1Flati\nt£ of
garden at Nazareth. They were also allied
to the Holy Family on the side of Eliza
beth. I saw the Blessed Virgin remain
some time with them before returning to
Joseph's house ; but his trouble increased
to such an extent, that when Mary de
sired to return to his house, he had
formed the intention of leaving it and
going away secretly. Whilst he was
meditating on this project an angel ap
peared to him in a dream and consoled
him.
PREPARATIONS FOR THE BIRTH OF
JESUS CHRIST. — DEPARTURE OF THE
HOLY FAMILY FOR BETHLEHEM.
SUNDAY, the nth of November, 1821.—
For many days past I have seen the
Blessed Virgin near her mother, St. Anne,
whose house is about a league from
Nazareth, in the Valley of Zabulon. Her
servant remained at the house of Naza-
©ur SLorfc 3esus Gbrist. 31
reth. She attends to St. Joseph when
Mary is with her mother. In reality, so
long as Anne lived, they had not an
entirely separate establishment, but re
ceived always from the latter everything
they required.
I saw, during fifteen days, the Blessed
Virgin engaged in preparations for the
birth of Jesus Christ ; she got ready
coverlets, bandages, and swaddling clothes.
Her father, Joachim, was no longer living.
There was in the house a little girl of
about seven years old who was often near
the Blessed Virgin, and to whom she gave
lessons. I believe that she was the
daughter of Mary of Cleophas. She was
also called Mary. Joseph is not at
Nazareth, but he will soon arrive. He
is on his return from Jerusalem, where
he had led victims for sacrifice.
I saw the Blessed Virgin in the house.
She was in an advanced state of preg-
32 ZTbe matfx>m? ot
nancy, and was working sitting in a room
with several other women. They were
preparing articles and coverlets for the
confinement of Mary. Anne had con
siderable property in cattle and pasture
lands. She furnished the Blessed Virgin
abundantly with everything which was
needful for her condition : as she believed
that Mary would be confined at her house,
and that all her relatives would visit her
on this occasion, she made all sorts of
preparations for the birth of the child of
promise. They prepared for this purpose
beautiful coverlets and rugs.
I had seen a coverlet of this kind at
the time of the birth of St. John, in the
house of Elizabeth. It had on it sym
bolical figures and sentences worked by
the needle. In the middle was a sort
of wrapper in which the woman when
lying in, was placed. When the different
parts of the coverlet were fitted together
XorO Jesus dbrist 33
around her with strings and buttons she
seemed like a little child in its swaddling
clothes, and could easily sit up between
the cushions, and receive the visits of
her friends, who would sit round her
on the border of the tapestry.
They got ready also in the house of St.
Anne things of this kind, besides ban
dages and swaddling clothes for the
child. I saw also threads of gold and
silver, which they interwove here and
there. All these articles and coverlets
were not only for the use of the person
confined ; there were also many things
intended for the poor, whom they al
ways thought of, on such occasions. I
saw the Blessed Virgin and other women
sitting on the floor round a large chest,
and working at a larger coverlet, which
was placed on this box in the midst of
them. They made use of short sticks,
to which thread of different colours was
34 ftbe 1Flati\>it£ ot
attached. St. Anne was very busy ; she
went here and there to get the wool, to
divide it, and give their work to her
servants.
Monday, the 1 2th of November. — Joseph
should return to-day to Nazareth. He
was at Jerusalem, whither he had led some
animals for sacrifice. He had left them
at a small inn, situated a quarter of a
league from Jerusalem and kept by an
old couple without children. They were
pious people with whom persons could
stay with all. confidence. Joseph went
from there to Bethlehem ; but he did
not visit the relatives he had there. He
wished only to get information relative to
a numbering or a levy of duty, which re
quired that every one should come to the
place where he was born. He did not,
however, report himself; as he intended,
when the time of the purification of Mary
was accomplished, to go with her from
©ur Xorfc 5csus Christ. 35
Nazareth to the Temple at Jerusalem, and
thence to Bethlehem, where he intended
to settle. I do not know what advantage
he expected from this ; hut he did not
like living at Nazareth. It was on this
account that he took advantage of this
opportunity to go to Bethlehem.
He there got information about stones
and wood used by carpenters, as he had
the intention to build a house. He re
turned afterwards to the inn near Jeru
salem, conducted the victims to the
Temple and returned home.
As to-day towards midnight he was
crossing the Plain of Kimki, six leagues
from Nazareth, an angel appeared to him
and told him to depart with Mary for
Bethlehem, for it was there that she
should bring her child into the world.
The angel also directed what he should
take with him : that he must take but few
things, and especially not the embroidered
36 Tlbe 1RatfY>ft£ of
coverlets. He must also, besides the ass
on which Mary would ride, take with him
an ass of a year old who had not had
young ; he must let it run at liberty, and
always follow the road which it took.
This evening Anne went to Nazareth
with the Blessed Virgin. They knew that
Joseph was coming ; they appeared, how
ever, not to know that Mary would go to
Bethlehem. They believed that Mary
would bring her child into the world in
the house at Nazareth, for I saw that they
brought there many things which they had
prepared packed in matting. Joseph will
arrive at Nazareth in the evening.
Tuesday, the i3th of November. — To
day I saw the Blessed Virgin Mary with
her mother in the house at Nazareth, when
Joseph informed them of what had been
said to him on the preceding night.
They returned together to Anne's house,
and I saw them make preparations for a
<S>ur %ov& Jesus Cbilst. 37
speedy departure. Anne was much dis
tressed. The Blessed Virgin knew already
that she must bring forth her son at
Bethlehem, but through humility she said
nothing.
She knew this from the prophecies on
the birth of the Messiah, which she kept
at Nazareth. She had received these
writings from her mistresses in the Temple,
and these holy women had explained them
to her. Her ardent desire continually
invoked the coming of the Messiah ; she
called blessedjher who should bring into
the world this holy infant, and desired
only to be the least of her servants.
She did not think in her humility that
this honour could be destined for her.
As she knew by the text of the pro
phecies that the Saviour would be born
in Bethlehem, she conformed with still
greater joy to the Divine will, and pre
pared for this journey, a very painful one
38 ZTbe IRatfvnts of
at this season, for it was often very cold
in the valleys between the chains of moun
tains.
This evening St. Joseph and the
Blessed Virgin, accompanied by Anne,
Mary of Cleophas, and some servants,
departed from St. Anne's house. Mary was
sitting on the saddle of an ass which also
carried the luggage. Joseph led the ass.
There was another ass on which Anne
intended to return.
JOURNEY OF THE HOLY FAMILY.
THIS morning I saw the holy travellers
arrive at six leagues from Nazareth, at a
plain called Ghinim, where the angel had
appeared to St. Joseph the evening before.
Anne possessed some pastures at this place,
and the servants were to bring from this
place the ass of a year old, which Joseph
Xorfc 3esus Cbrfst. 39
had to take with him : it ran sometimes in
advance of the travellers, sometimes close
to them. Anne and Mary of Cleophas
here bid good-bye to the holy travellers
and returned with the servants.
I saw the Holy Family proceed further
by a road which rises towards the moun
tains of Gilboa. They did not go into
cities, and followed the young ass, which
always took cross ways. It was in this
manner that I saw them at some property
of Lazarus, a short distance from the
village of Ghinim, by the side of Samaria.
The superintendent received them in a
friendly manner. He had known them
on another journey. Their family had
connections with that of Lazarus. There
were there beautiful orchards and walks.
The position was so elevated as to com
mand a very extensive view. Lazarus in
herited this property from his father. Our
Lord Jesus Christ stayed often here during
40 ZTbe IRatixnts of
His ministry, and taught in the vicinity.
The manager and his wife conversed in a
friendly manner with the Blessed Virgin,
and showed their surprise that she should
have undertaken so long a journey in her
present condition, when she could have
remained so comfortably at her mother's
house.
Night of Thursday or Friday, the i6th
of November. — I saw the Holy Family at
some leagues beyond the spot mentioned
above, proceeding in the night towards a
mountain through a very cold valley. It
seemed to have been a white frost. The
Blessed Virgin suffered much from the
cold, and she said to St. Joseph, " We shall
be obliged to stop here ; I can't go any
further." Scarcely had she said these words
when the young ass stopped all at once
under a large and very old fir tree which
was near the place-awl near which was a
yVS^N
spring. The/c^>«tte3X]itfj^er this tree.
LIBRAR
(SHir OLorfc 5esus Cbrist. 41
Joseph arranged with wrappers a seat
for the Blessed Virgin, whom he assisted
to alight from the ass and she sat
against the tree. Joseph hung up a
lantern which he carried with him on a
bough of the tree. I have frequently
seen persons who travel at night in this
country do the same. The Blessed
Virgin called upon God, and asked that
He would not permit the cold to be hurtful
to him. Then she all at once perceived
such a great heat that she stretched her
hands to St. Joseph that he might warm
his. They refreshed themselves a little
with the small cakes and the fruits which
they had with them, and drank of the
water from the neighbouring fountain, in
which they mixed some of the balm which
Joseph had brought in a little pitcher.
Joseph consoled and encouraged the Holy
Virgin. He was so good : he suffered so
much because the journey was so painful
42 ZTbe 1Ratf\>it£ of
to her. He spoke to her about the good
lodgings which he expected to procure at
Bethlehem : he knew of a house belonging
to some very honest people, where they
could be well accommodated at reason
able expense. He praised Bethlehem in
general, and said anything he could to
console her. This gave me anxiety, as
I knew things would turn out otherwise.
To this place on their journey they had
passed two small streams of water, one of
them by a high bridge, and the two asses
had passed through the ford. The young
ass, which ran at liberty, had singular
ways of proceeding. When the road was
well defined, for instance, between two
mountains, and they could make no mis
take, sometimes it ran behind the tra
vellers, sometimes a long way before
them. When the way divided it always
reappeared and took the right direction ;
when they desired to stop, it stopped of
©ur Xorfc Jesus Gbrist. 43
itself, as at their rest under the fir tree.
I do not know whether they passed the
night under this tree or reached another
resting-place.
This fir tree was an old and sacred tree
which had formed part of the Wood of
Moreh, near to Sichem. Abraham com
ing from the land of Chanaan, had there
seen the Lord appear, who had promised
him this land for his posterity. He had
erected an altar under this fir tree.
Jacob, before going to Bethel to offer
sacrifice to the Lord, had buried under
this fir tree the idols of Laban, and the
jewels which his family had with them.
Joshua had erected there the tabernacle
in which was the Ark of the Covenant, and
had there assembled the people and made
them renounce their idols. It was there
also that Abimelech, the son of Gideon,
had been proclaimed King by the Sichem-
ites.
44 TOe IFlattpftp of
Friday, the i6th of November. — To-day
the Holy Family arrived at a large farm,
two leagues more to the south than the
fir tree. The mistress of the house was
absent, and the master refused to receive
St. Joseph, telling him that he could
easily go further on. When they had
gone a short way further they found the
young ass in the cottage of a shepherd,
into which they also entered. Some
shepherds, who were engaged arranging
the cottage, received them with much
kindness. They gave them some straw
and small bundles of rushes and branches
to make a fire. The shepherds went to
the house from which they had been sent
away ; and when they told the mistress of
this house how Joseph appeared to be
good and pious, and his wife was beau
tiful and had a saintly appearance, she
reproached her husband for having
driven away such excellent persons.
©in* %orb 3esus Christ. 45
I saw this woman also soon go to the
cabin where the Blessed Virgin was
staying ; but she dare not enter through
timidity, and returned to her house to get
some food.
The place where they were now staying
was on the northern side of a mountain,
a short distance between Samaria and
Thebez. To the east of the place beyond
the Jordan is Succoth. Ainon is a little
more to the south also beyond the river.
Salem is on this side — it would be about
twelve leagues from there to Nazareth.
After a time the woman came with
two children to see the Holy Family,
bringing with her some provisions. She
excused herself politely, and seemed
touched with their position. When the
travellers had eaten and taken some rest
the husband came also and begged
pardon of St. Joseph for having sent
him away. He advised him to go
£be Ittatipit of
another league towards the top of the
mountain ; telling him that he would
arrive at a good resting-place before the
beginning of the Sabbath, and could re
main there during the day of rest : they
then set forward on their journey.
When they had travelled nearly a league
always mounting upwards, they arrived at
an inn of decent appearance, composed of
several buildings surrounded with gardens
and trees. These were also, ranged like
espaliers, trees which yielded bairn : this
place of accommodation was also on the
northern side of the mountain.
The Blessed Virgin had dismounted.
Joseph led the ass. They came near
the house and St. Joseph asked the host
to accommodate them ; but he declined
because his inn was full. His wife then
came, and as the Blessed Virgin addressed
herself to her, and asked her with the most
touching humility to give them a lodging,
©ur Xoi^ 3esus Cbrtst. 47
this woman experienced a profound emo
tion, and the host also would no longer
refuse. He arranged a convenient shelter
for them in an adjoining cabin and put
their ass into the stable. The young ass
was not there ; it was running about at
liberty in the neighbourhood. It was al
ways at a distance from them when not
wanted to show the way.
Joseph prepared a lamp under which
he placed himself at prayer with the
Blessed Virgin, observing the Sabbath
with a touching piety. They ate some
thing and reposed on mats spread on
the ground.
Saturday, the ryth of November. — To
day I saw the Holy Family rest in this place
all the day. Mary and Joseph prayed to
gether. I saw the wife of the host with
her three children near the Blessed Virgin.
The woman who had received them on
the previous day came also to visit her
48 Zlbe Ittatiritp of
with her two children ; they sat near her
in a very friendly manner, and were
touched with the modesty and wisdom of
Mary. The Blessed Virgin talked to the
children and gave them instructions.
The children had little rolls of parch
ment : Mary made them read, and spoke
to them in such a kind way that they
could not help looking at her. It was
affecting to see, and still more affecting
to hear. I saw St. Joseph in the afternoon
take a walk with his host in the environs :
this is what I have always seen done by
pious country people on the Sabbath-day.
The holy travellers remained still in this
place during the following night.
Sunday, the i8th of November. — The
good hosts of this place had conceived an
incredible affection for the Blessed Virgin,
and showed a tender compassion for her
state. They entreated her in the most
friendly manner to remain with them, and
©ur OLoi'fc Jesus Christ* 49
to await the time of her delivery ; they
showed her a convenient room which they
desired to give her. The woman offered
from the bottom of her heart all her
assistance and friendship.
But they resumed their journey early
in the morning, and descended by the
south-east side of the mountain into a
valley. They went then further from
Samaria, to which the route they had
till then taken seemed to lead them.
As they descended the mountain they
could see the Temple on Mount Garizim.
It could be seen from a great distance.
There were many figures of lions and
other animals on the top, which shone in
the sunbeams.
I saw them travel about six leagues to
day. Towards evening, being in a plain
south-east of Sichem, they entered into
a rather large house of shepherds, where
they were well received. The master of
4
50 TOe 1RattY>tt£ of
the house was charged with the super
vision of the orchards and fields which
belonged to a neighbouring town. The
house was not completely in the plain,
but on a slope. Here everything was
fertile and in a better condition than the
country which they had previously passed.
It was turned towards the sun, which in
the land of promise makes a consider
able difference at this time of the year.
From here to Bethlehem there were many
similar dwellings of shepherds dispersed
in the valleys.
The people of this place were some of
those shepherds whose daughters many
of the servants of the three kings, who
remained in Palestine, subsequently mar
ried. From one of these marriages came
a young boy, whom Our Lord cured in
this same house, at the prayer of the
Blessed Virgin, on the 3ist of July (yth
of the month of Ab), in the second year
Xorfc Jesus Christ, 51
of His ministry, after talking . with the
woman of Samaria. Jesus took him and
two other young men to accompany Him
on the journey which He made into
Arabia after the death of Lazarus, and he
became later on a disciple of the Lord.
Jesus frequently stayed and taught here.
There were children in the house : Joseph
blessed them before his departure.
CONTINUATION OF THE JOURNEY TO
BETHLEHEM.
MONDAY, the i9th of November. — To
day I saw them follow a more regular
road. The Blessed Virgin travelled on
foot from time to time. They found
more frequently convenient resting-places
where they refreshed themselves. They
had with them little loaves and a beverage
both refreshing and strengthening, in little
pitchers of a very elegant shape which
52 ZTbe Iftattvntp of
had two handles and shone like bronze.
It was balm, which they mixed with
water. They gathered also berries and
fruits which still hung upon the trees and
bushes in certain places exposed to the
sun. Mary's seat on the ass had a sort
of -ledge on the right and left on which
to rest the feet, so that they did not hang
down as those of country people who go
on horseback in our country. Her move
ments were singularly proper and be
coming. She sat alternately on the right
and left. The first thing that St. Joseph
did when they halted or entered any
place was to find some place where the
Blessed Virgin could conveniently sit
down and rest. He often washed his
feet, as did Mary. In general, they fre
quently washed themselves.
It was already night when they arrived
at an isolated house, but the master of
the house would not open it ; and when
©ur Xor& Jesus Cbnst. 53
St. Joseph represented the state of Mary,
who was not in a condition to go any
further, adding that he did not expect to
be lodged for nothing, this hard-hearted
and rude man replied that his house was
not an inn, and desired them to leave him
quiet and give over knocking, and things
of that sort. This boorish man did not
even open his door, but gave his rude
reply behind the closed door. They then
continued their way and after some time
they entered into a shed near which they
found that the little ass had stopped.
Joseph procured a light and prepared a
couch for the Blessed Virgin who helped
him. He brought the ass in also, for
which he prepared a litter and forage.
They prayed, took a little food, and
slept some hours. From the last inn to
here they had travelled about six miles
of the way. They were now about
twenty-six leagues from Nazareth and ten
54 ftbe IRativntp of
from Jerusalem. So far they had not
followed the highway, but had crossed
many ways of communication which went
from the Jordan to Samaria and joined
the principal routes which led from Syria
into Egypt. The cross roads which they
had followed were very narrow on the
mountains ; they were sometimes so
strait that it required every care to
proceed without stumbling : but the asses
walked with a very sure step. Their
present resting-place was in a level
country.
Tuesday, the 2oth of November. —
They left this place before daylight.
The way again became slightly hilly.
I believe they came near the road which
led from Gabara to Jerusalem and which
formed at this spot the boundary between
Samaria and Judea. They were again
rudely driven away from a house when
they were some leagues to the north-east
©ur Xorfc 5esus Gbrfst. 55
of Bethania. It happened that Mary,
being very tired, wished to take something
and to rest ; then Joseph turned off from
the road to go about half a league from
there to a spot in which there was a beau
tiful fig tree which was generally covered
with fruit. This tree was surrounded
with seats to rest upon, and Joseph knew
of it from one of his previous journeys.
But when they arrived there they did not
find a single fruit, which troubled them
very much. I have a confused recollec
tion that later on Jesus met with this tree,
which was covered with leaves, but bore no
fruit. I believe that the Lord cursed this
tree on a journey which He made after es
caping from Jerusalem, and that it entirely
withered away.*
* The Sister was so unwell when she re
lated this that she could not clearly point
out in what place this fig tree grew, which,
however, is not the fig tree mentioned by the
Evangelist.
56 ZEbe IKlatixntp of
They then came to a house where the
master began by treating in a brutal
manner St. Joseph, who humbly asked
hospitality. He looked at the Blessed
Virgin by the light of his lantern, and
rallied St. Joseph for bringing his young
wife with him. But the mistress of the
house came forward : she pitied the
Blessed Virgin, and in a friendly manner
offered them a room in a building adjoin
ing the house, and even brought them
some small cakes. The husband re
pented of his brutality, and showed
himself very obliging to the Holy
Family.
They subsequently went to a third
house, inhabited by a young family.
They received them, but without much
courtesy ; they scarcely took notice of
them. These people were not among
the shepherds of simple manners, but
like rich country people of the place,
3Loi*fc Jesus (Ibrist, 57
altogether taken up with their affairs,
business, etc.
Jesus visited one of these houses after
His baptism, the 2oth of October. They
had made an oratory of the room where His
parents had passed the night. I cannot
well say whether it was the house where
the master had rallied St. Joseph. I only
confusedly remember that they had made
this arrangement after the miracles which
marked the birth of the Saviour.
Joseph made frequent halts towards the
end of their journey, for the Blessed
Virgin became more and more fatigued.
They followed the road which was shown
them by the young ass, and made a cir
cuitous route of a day and a half to the
east of Jerusalem. The father of Joseph
had owned pastures in this country, and
he knew it well. If they had directly
crossed the desert, which is to the south,
behind Bethany, they could have reached
58 Ube IRativitp of
Bethlehem in six hours ; but the road was
mountainous and very inconvenient at
this season. They followed, then, the
young ass through the length of the
valleys, and went a little towards the
Jordan.
Wednesday, the 2 1 st of November. — To
day I saw the holy travellers enter in the
daytime into a large house of shepherds.
This must be about three leagues from the
place where John baptised in the Jordan
and about seven leagues from Bethlehem.
This is the house where thirty years after
Jesus passed the night, the 1 1 th of October,
the eve of the day on which for the first
time after His baptism He passed before
John the Baptist. Near this house was a
separate barn, where they kept their tools
and such things as the shepherds made
use of. In the court was a fountain sur
rounded with baths which received the
water of this fountain through pipes. The
©ur %otb 3esus Gbrist. 59
master of this house must have had a large
property : there was there an extensive
cultivation of land. I saw a number of
servants come and go, who there took
their meals.
The master of the house received the
travellers in a very friendly manner, and
showed himself very obliging. He took
them into a comfortable room and took
care of the ass. A servant washed the
feet of St. Joseph at the fountain and
gave him other clothes whilst he cleaned
his own, which were covered with dust.
A female servant rendered the same as
sistance to the Blessed Virgin. They
took their repasts in this house and slept
here. The mistress of the house was a
very frivolous character, and she remained
shut up in her room. She looked at the
travellers without being seen ; and as she
was young and vain, the beauty of the
Blessed Virgin displeased her. She feared
60 ftbe 1RatfY>it£ of
also that Mary would speak to her, desire
to stay in her house and be confined
there ; so she had the want of politeness
not to show herself, and took measures
that the travellers should depart on the
following day. This was the woman
whom, thirty years after, Jesus found in
this house blind and bent double, and
whom He cured, after having given her
some advice on her want of hospitality
and her vanity. There were also some
children in the house. The Holy Family
passed the night there.
Thursday, the 22nd of November. — To
day towards noon I saw the Holy Family
quit the place where they had stayed the
previous night. Some of the people of
the house went with them a part of the
way. After a short journey of about two
leagues they arrived towards the evening
at a place which crossed a highway
bounded on each side by a long row of
©ur Xorfc Jesus Cbrist. 61
houses with courts or gardens. Joseph
had relatives living here. It seemed to
me that they were the children of the
second marriage of his step-father or his
step-mother. These houses had a hand
some appearance. They passed, however,
this place from one end to the other ;
then, about half a league from there, they
turned to the right in the direction of
Jerusalem, and arrived at a large inn, in
the court of which was a fountain with
many conduits. There were many people
assembled together celebrating a funeral.
The interior of the house, in the centre
of which was a fireplace with a tunnel for
the smoke, had been transformed into a
large apartment by the taking away of
the movable partitions which ordinarily
constituted several rooms ; behind the
fireplace were suspended some black hang
ings and in the front stood something
which resembled a bier covered with
62 Ube IFlativntp ot
<c
black. There were several men praying
there ; they wore long black robes and
over these shorter white ones. Some of
them had a kind of black maniple with
fringe fastened to the arm. Some women
were in another room completely covered
by their vestments. They sat on some
low chests and were weeping. The
master of the house, altogether engaged
in the funeral ceremonies, only made
signs for the travellers to enter : but the
servants received them very well and
took care of them ; they prepared for
them a separate lodging with suspended
mats which much resembled a tent.
Later on I saw the hosts visit the Holy
Family and talk with them in a friendly
way. They had no longer on their
white vestments. Joseph and Mary, after
having taken a little food, prayed together
and took their rest.
Friday, the 23rd of November. — To-day
r Xorfc Jesus (Ibrist. 63
towards .noon Joseph and Mary set for
ward on their journey to Bethlehem, from
which they were about three leagues
distant. The mistress of the house
pressed them to stay, as it appeared to
her that Mary might be delivered at any
moment. Mary replied, after having
lowered her veil, that she had still thirty-
six hours to wait. I am not sure that
she did not say thirty-eight. This woman
would have taken care of them without
any charge ; not, however, in her own
house, but in another building. I saw
when they were leaving that Joseph spoke
to the host about his asses : he praised
them very much, and said he had taken
the young ass with him in order that he
might pledge it in case of necessity. As
his host spoke of the difficulty of getting
lodgings in Bethlehem, Joseph told him
he had friends there and was sure of
being well received. It always gave me
64 Ube 1ftativ>ft£ of
pain to hear him speak with confidence
of the good reception that awaited him :
he spoke of it again to Mary on the
journey. It is clear that even holy
persons may be deceived.
BETHLEHEM. — ARRIVAL OF THE HOLY
FAMILY.
FRIDAY, the 23rd of November. — The dis
tance of the way from their last resting-
place to Bethlehem would be about three
leagues ; they made a circuitous route at
the north of Bethlehem and approached
the city on the south side. They made a
halt under a tree outside of their route.
Mary dismounted from the ass and put
her clothes in order ; then Joseph pro
ceeded forward with her towards a large
building surrounded with other smaller
buildings and courts. They were still
a few minutes from Bethlehem. There
©ur OLorfc Sesus Gbrtet 65
were trees there, and many people were
preparing tents all about. It was an old
house belonging to the family of David,
and which had belonged to Joseph's
family. Some relatives or acquaintances
of Joseph lived there still ; but they
treated him like a stranger, and would
not recognise him. This was now the
house where they received the taxes for
the Roman Government. Joseph, accom
panied by the Blessed Virgin, and holding
the ass by the bridle, proceeded to this
house, for all persons who arrived were
bound to make it known there, and they
there received a billet without which they
were not allowed to enter Bethlehem.
The Sister said afterwards, with some
intervals in her statement : The young ass
is no longer with them ; it runs round the
city towards the south : there was there a
little valley. Joseph has entered into the
large building. Mary is in a little house
66 Ube IRativits of
with some women ; they are very kind to
her, and give her something to eat.
These women cook for the soldiers :
they are Roman soldiers, who had straps
round their loins. The season is very
pleasant here, and not very cold. The
sun is seen above the mountain, which is
between Jerusalem and Bethania. They
have here a most beautiful view. Joseph
is in a large room which is not on the
ground floor : they ask him who he is,
and they consult the large scrolls which
are hanging on the walls ; they unfold
them, and read there his genealogy and
also that of Mary. They did not appear
to know that she also, by Joachim, de
scended in a direct line from David. The
man asked him where his wife was.
It is six years since the people of this
country had been regularly taxed. There
had been a good deal of disorder and
confusion. This impost had been two
<S»ur Xorfc Jesus Gbrist. 67
months in operation : it had been paid
from time to time during the past seven
years, but not regularly ; it has now to
be paid double. Joseph has arrived
rather late for the payment of the duty,
but they have treated him very politely.
He has not yet paid. They asked him
what were his means of subsistence, and
he replied that he had no landed pro
perty — that he lived by his trade, and
that he also received assistance from his
mother-in-law.
There were a great many writers and
important officials in the house : in the
upper part were Romans and many sol
diers ; there were also Pharisees, Saddu-
cees, priests, elders, and a number of
Scribes and functionaries, both Jews and
Romans. There was no meeting of this
kind at Jerusalem, but in several other
parts of the country; for example, at Mag-
dalum, near the Lake of Gennesareth,
68 Ube 1Ratfv>ft£ ot
where the people of Galilee came to
pay as well as the people of Sidon, in
consequence, as I believe, of certain
commercial arrangements. It is only
those who have no landed property who
are obliged to go to the place of their
birth.
The produce of the tax for the next
three months will be divided into three
parts, of which each has a different des
tination. The first is for the benefit of
the Emperor Augustus, Herod, and
another prince who dwelt in the neigh
bourhood of Egypt. He had taken part
in a war and possessed certain rights over
a portion of the country, and on this ac
count something had to be paid to him.
The second part was for the building of
the Temple : it seemed to me that it had
to be applied to pay off a debt. The
third part should be for the widows and
the poor, who have received nothing for a
(Ibvtst. 69
long while ; but, as happens nowadays,
the money scarcely ever goes to the right
persons. Good pretexts are given for
raising the duty, and almost all remains
in the hands of powerful people.
When what concerned St. Joseph was
arranged they made the Blessed Virgin
also come before the writers ; but they
did not read their papers to her. They
told St. Joseph that he need not have
brought his wife with him, and they had
the appearance of joking with him about
the youth of Mary, which caused him
slight confusion.
JOSEPH IN VAIN SEEKS FOR A LODGING. —
THEY GO TO THE GROTTO OF THE
CRIB.
THEY then entered into Bethlehem, in
which the houses were separated from
each other by considerable spaces. They
70 Ube Iflativntp of
entered across some rubbish and by a
gate which was fallen into decay. Mary
remained quietly with the ass at the end
of the street, and Joseph searched in vain
for a lodging in the first houses, for there
were many strangers in Bethlehem and
many people were running here and there.
He returned to Mary and told her that he
could find nowhere to lodge there, and that
they must go on further into the city. He
led the ass by the bridle whilst the Blessed
Virgin walked by his side. When they
were come to the end of another street
Mary remained again near the ass while
Joseph went from house to house without
being able to find one where they would
receive him. He soon returned very much
troubled. This was repeated several times,
and sometimes the Blessed Virgin had a
long time to wait : everywhere the place
was taken up, everywhere he was repulsed,
and he ended by telling Mary that they
©ur Xorfc Sesus Gbrist. 71
must go to another part of Bethlehem,
where they would be sure to find what they
wanted. They then retraced their steps
in the direction contrary to that which
they had taken in coming when they
turned to the south. They then passed
through a street which seemed rather a
country road as the houses were isolated
and on slight elevations.
Arrived at the other side of Bethlehem,
where the houses were still more scattered,
they found a large empty space situated
in a hollow ; it was like a deserted field
in the city. There was there a kind of
shed, and a short distance from it a large
tree, like a lime tree, with a smooth trunk,
whose branches extended widely and
formed a kind of roof over it. Joseph led
the Blessed Virgin to this tree ; he ar
ranged a convenient seat for her with
bundles at the foot of the trunk, in order
that she might rest whilst he sought again
72 ITbe 1Ratf\nt£ of
for a lodging in the neighbouring houses.
The ass stood still with its head turned
towards the tree. Mary remained at first
standing, leaning against the trunk of the
tree. Her robe of white wool, had no
belt, and fell about her in folds ; her
head was covered with a white veil.
Many persons passed by and looked at
her, not knowing that their Saviour was
so near them. How patient, humble, and
resigned she was. She had to wait a
long time, and at last she sat down
upon the rugs, her hands joined on her
breast, and with her head bowed down.
Joseph returned to her in great trouble :
he had not found a lodging. The friends
of whom he had spoken to the Blessed
Virgin would scarcely notice him. He
shed tears, and Mary consoled him. He
went again from house to house ; but as,
in order the more to induce them to con
sent, he had spoken of the near approach
©ut Xovfc Scans Gbrist. 73
of his wife's confinement, this drew upon
him a more distinct refusal. The place
was solitary ; but in the end some people
passing by looked from a distance with
curiosity, as is usual if any one is seen
remaining a long time in the same
place towards the close of the day. I
believe that some of them spoke to Mary
and asked her who she was. At last
Joseph returned ; he was so much
troubled that he hardly dare come near
her. He told her it was of no use, but
that he knew further on in the city a
spot where the shepherds often stayed
when they came to Bethlehem with their
flocks, and that they would find there at
least a shelter. He knew the place from
his youth : when his brothers tormented
him he had often retired there to es
cape from their persecutions. He said
if the shepherds came there he could
easily arrange with them, but that they
5
74 Ube IRativitp of
were rarely here at this season of
the year. He added, when they were
quietly settled he would make further in
quiries. They then went away by the
eastern side of Bethlehem, following a
deserted path which turned to the left.
It was a road like one which is found in
walking by the side of the dilapidated
walls, ditches, and fortifications of a small
city in ruins. The road at first rose a
little, it then descended the slope of a
small hill, and led them a few minutes to
the east of Bethlehem, before the place
they were seeking, near a hill or an old
rampart, in front of which stood some
trees. They were green trees (firs or
cedars), and other trees which had little
leaves like box leaves.
I have learned many things which took
place in ancient times in the Grotto of the
Crib. I remember only that Seth, the
child of promise, was there conceived and
Xorfc 3C9U8 Cbrtst. 75
brought into the world by Eve, after a
penitence of seven years.
It was there that the angel told her
that God had given her this offspring in
the place of Abel. Seth was concealed
and nourished in this grotto and in that
of Maraha, for his brothers sought his life
as the children of Jacob did that of
Joseph. At a more recent epoch, when
men lived in these grottos, I have often
seen them make excavations in the stone
so that they and their children could
sleep there comfortably on the skins of
beasts or on beds of grass. The excava
tion made in the rock under the crib
probably served for the bed of Seth, or
the subsequent occupiers of the grotto.
Of this, however, I am not sure.
76 TTbe 1ftativnt£ of
THE HOLY FAMILY ENTER INTO THE
GROTTO OF THE CRIB.
FRIDAY, the 23rd of November. — It was
already late when they arrived at the
entrance to the grotto. The young ass
which, since they had entered into the
paternal house of Joseph, had run about
all round the city, came there to meet
them, and began joyfully to leap about
near them. The Blessed Virgin then
said to Joseph : " See, it is certainly the
will of God that we go in here." Joseph
placed the ass under a kind of roof
which there was before the entrance of the
grotto : he prepared a. seat for the Blessed
Virgin and she sat down upon it whilst
he went to procure a light at the entrance
of the grotto. The entrance was partially
obstructed by bundles of straw and mats
placed against the walls. There were also
in the grotto many things which were in
the way, and Joseph cleared them away
XorD Jesus Cbrist. 77
so as to prepare a convenient place for
the Blessed Virgin on the eastern side of
the grotto. He fastened a lighted lamp
to the wall and brought Mary in, who
placed herself on a couch of rest which
he had prepared for her with coverlets
and some bundles. He excused himself
very humbly for only being able to pro
cure her such a poor lodging, but Mary
inwardly was contented and joyful.
When she was properly settled Joseph
went out with a leathern bottle, which he
carried with him, behind the hill, into the
meadow where a small brook was flowing.
He filled the bottle with water and
brought it into the grotto. He then went
into the city and procured some small
dishes and some charcoal. The Sabbath
was near, and in consequence of the
numerous strangers who required a num
ber of indispensable articles, they had
set up tables at the corners of the streets
78 ZTbe 1Rativ>ft£ of
on which there were provisions that might
be required. I believe there were there
people who were not Jews.
Joseph returned carrying the lighted
charcoal in a kind of grated box. He
placed them at the entrance of the grotto,
lighted the fire with a small piece of dry
wood, and then brought the repast, which
consisted of small cakes and some dry
fruits. When they had eaten and prayed
Joseph prepared a couch for the Blessed
Virgin. He spread over a litter of rushes
a coverlet similar to those which I had
seen in the house of St. Anne, and placed
another rolled-up coverlet to support her
head. After having brought in the ass
and fastened it to a spot where it would
be out of the way, he stopped up the
openings of the grotto by which the air
came in, and arranged a place to sleep for
himself in the entrance of the grotto.
When the Sabbath commenced he re-
Xorfc Jesus Cbrist. 79
mained with the Blessed Virgin under a
lamp and recited with her the prayers of
the Sabbath : he then quitted the grotto
and went into the city. Mary wrapped
herself up to take some rest. During the
absence of Joseph I saw the Blessed Vir
gin pray on her knees : then she stretched
herself on the coverlet reposing on her
side; her head reposed upon her arm which
was placed upon the pillow. Joseph re
turned later on : he prayed again and
humbly placed himself on his bed at
the entrance of the grotto.
Saturday, the 24th of November. — To
day the Sister was very unwell and could
only say very little. She communicated,
however, as follows :
The Blessed Virgin passed the Sabbath
in the Grotto of the Crib praying and med
itating with great fervour. Joseph went
out sometimes: he probably went to the
synagogue of Bethlehem. I saw them
8o Ube iRatfvits of
eat the food prepared on the preceding
day and pray together. In the afternoon,
at which time the Jews generally take a
walk on the Sabbath-day, Joseph led the
Blessed Virgin to the Grotto of the tomb
of Maraha, the nurse of Abraham. She
remained some time in this grotto which
was more spacious than that of the crib ;
and where Joseph arranged a seat for her.
She stayed also under the tree which
stood near, always praying and medi
tating until the close of the Sabbath.
Joseph then brought her back. Mary
had told her husband that the birth of
the child would take place on this day
at midnight, for at that hour would
terminate the nine months which had
passed since the salutation of the angel
of the Lord : she had prayed him to do
all they could to honour in the best manner
the entrance into the world of the child
promised by God and supernaturally con-
©ur XorD Jesus Cbnst. 81
ceived. She had asked him also to pray
with her for those hard-hearted people
who had refused to give him hospitality.
Joseph offered the Blessed Virgin to get
some pious women of Bethlehem whom he
knew to come and assist her. She did
not wish it, and she told him she should
have no need of help from any one.
Joseph went to Bethlehem before the
close of the Sabbath, and as soon as the
sun was set he bought some things which
he required : a dish, a small low table,
some fruits and dried grapes, which he
brought to the Grotto of the Crib: he went
from thence to the Grotto of Maraha and
led back the Blessed Virgin to that of the
crib, where she sat upon the coverlet.
Joseph prepared some food : they ate and
prayed together. He put up a division
between the place which he had chosen
to sleep in and the rest of the grotto by
means of some poles, on which he hung
82 ftbe Ittativntp of
some mats which he found there. He
gave the ass which was fastened to the
wall of the grotto something to eat : he
then filled the manger of the crib with
reeds and grass and moss and spread a
coverlet over it.
As the Blessed Virgin had then told
him that her time was at hand, and wished
him to pray in his chamber, he suspended
several lighted lamps from the roof and
went out from the grotto as he had heard
a noise near the entrance. He there
found the young ass, which till then had
been running about in the valley of the
shepherds. It appeared very joyful and
played and jumped about him : he fas
tened it under the shed, which was be
fore the grotto, and gave it some food.
When he returned to the grotto, and
before entering his retreat, he cast his eyes
upon the Blessed Virgin. He saw her
praying on her knees before the couch :
©ur %orfc Jesus Cbrist. 83
her back was turned towards him and she
was looking towards the east. She seemed
to him as if surrounded by flames, and all
the grotto seemed to shine with a super
natural light. He looked at it as Moses
when he saw the burning bush : then
seized with a holy fear, he entered into
his cell and prostrated himself with his
face to the ground.
THE BIRTH OF CHRIST.
THE light which surrounded the Blessed
Virgin became more and more brilliant :
the light of the lamp prepared by Joseph
could not be seen. When the hour
of midnight arrived Mary was trans
ported in an ecstasy. I saw her
raised a certain height from the ground ;
she had her hands crossed upon her
breast. The light kept increasing around
84 TOe 1Ratix>ft£ of
her ; everything seemed to feel a joyful
emotion, even things inanimate. The
rock which formed the floor and the
wall of the grotto were, as it were, alive
with light. But soon I saw no more of
the roof; a luminous path, whose bright
ness continually increased, went from
Mary to the highest heaven. Then
was there a marvellous movement of
the celestial glories, which, approaching
nearer and nearer, appeared distinctly
under the form of the angelic choirs.
The Blessed Virgin, raised from the
earth in her ecstasy, prayed and turned
her eyes to her God, of whom she had
become the mother, and who, a feeble
new-born infant, was lying on the ground
before her.
I saw Our Saviour like a little shining
infant, whose brilliance eclipsed all the
surrounding splendour, lying upon the
rug before the knees of the Blessed
<S>ur Xorfc 3esus Cbttst. 85
Virgin. He seemed to me very small,
and to grow larger before my eyes ; but
this was only the radiance of a light so
dazzling that I can scarcely say how I
could see it.
The Blessed Virgin remained some
time in ecstasy. Then I saw her place
a linen cloth over the child ; but she did
not touch Him nor take Him yet into her
arms. After a short time I saw the In
fant Jesus move, and I heard Him cry.
It was then that the Blessed Virgin re
covered the use of her senses. She took
the child, wrapped it in the linen cloth
with which she had covered it, and took
it in her arms against her breast. I be
lieve that she suckled it. I then saw
angels around her in human form pros
trate themselves before the new-born and
adore Him.
About an hour had elapsed since the
birth of the child, when Mary called St.
86 Ube IttatfvitE of
Joseph, who was still praying with his
face to the ground. Approaching, he
prostrated himself, full of joy, humility,
and fervour. It was only when Mary
had induced him to press to his heart
the sacred gift of the Most High, that
he rose, received the Infant Jesus in his
arms, and returned thanks to God with
tears of joy.
Then the Blessed Virgin swathed the
Infant Jesus. Mary had only four linen
cloths with her. I then saw Mary and
Joseph sitting on the ground near each
other. They did not speak, but seemed
absorbed in contemplation. Before Mary,
swathed as an ordinary child, was laid the
new-born Jesus, beautiful and bright as
lightning. " Ah ! " I exclaimed, " this
place contains the Salvation of the whole
world, and no one can doubt it."
They then placed the infant in the crib.
They had re-filled it with rushes and
3esus Gbrist. 87
beautiful plants, on which they had
spread a coverlet. It was above the
trough, hollowed in the rock to the
right of the entrance to the grotto,
which became larger there in a southerly
direction. When they had placed the
infant in the crib they both stood at the
side, shedding tears of joy and chanting
songs of praise. Joseph then arranged
the sleeping couch and seat of the
Blessed Virgin by the side of the crib.
I saw her, both before and after the birth
of Jesus, dressed in a white garment,
which completely covered her. I saw
her during the first days sitting, kneel
ing, standing, or even lying on her side,
and sleeping ; but neither ill nor fatigued.
ZTbe •Rattvitg ot
THE " GLORIA IN EXCELSIS." — THE
BIRTH OF CHRIST ANNOUNCED TO
THE SHEPHERDS.
I SAW in many places, even in the most
distant countries, an unusual joy and
an extraordinary movement during this
night. I saw the hearts of many good
men animated with a joyous desire, and
those of the wicked full of anguish and
trouble. I saw many animals show their
joy by their movements, the flowers raise
their heads, plants and trees receive as it
were new life and spread far and wide
their perfumes. I saw also springs burst
out of the ground. Thus at the moment
that the Saviour was born an abundant
spring burst forth in the grotto which is on
the hill to the north of the Grotto of the
Crib. Joseph saw it on the following day
and prepared a place for it to run off.
Over Bethlehem the sky was of a sombre
red, whilst over the Grotto of the Crib, in
Jesus Cbrtst. 89
the valley near the Grotto of Maraha, and
over the Valley of the Shepherds there
was a shining vapour.
In the Valley of the Shepherds, about a
league and a half from the Grotto of the
Crib, there was a hill at which vineyards
commenced which extended from thence
as far as Gaza. The cottages of three shep
herds, who were the heads of the families
of shepherds who lived in the neighbour
hood, stood on the side of this hill. At a
distance twice that from the Grotto of the
Crib, was a tower called the Shepherd's
Tower: it was a large pyramid shaped scaf
folding of woodwork, having for its base
blocks of stone placed in the midst of green
trees, and built upon an isolated hill stand
ing in the midst of the plain. It was sur
rounded with staircases and galleries, with
a kind of small round towers, the whole
being as it were hung round with matting.
It had some resemblance to those towers
90 TTbe 1Rati\>it£ of
of wood from the top of which they
observed the stars in the country of the
three Magi kings, and which had in the
distance the appearance of a large ship
with many masts and sails. There was
a very extensive view from this tower
over the surrounding country. Jerusalem,
and even the Mountain of the Temptation
in the Desert of Jericho could be seen
from here. The shepherds had watchers
there to look after the movements of their
flocks, and to warn them by sounding a
horn, in case of an incursion of robbers
or soldiers, and whom they could see for
a long distance from this spot.
The families of the shepherds lived all
about here within a radius of more than
two leagues ; they occupied small isolated
farms surrounded with gardens and fields.
The place where they assembled to
gether was near this tower. The guardians
appointed to watch over the common
<S>ur Xorfc Jesus Cbrist. 91
property dwelt here on the side of the
hill where the tower stood; there were
cottages, and separate from these a large
shed with many apartments, where the
wives of the guardians lived and prepared
the food. On this night I saw the flocks
near the tower ; a part were in the open
air, another part were under a shed near
the hill of the three shepherds.
When Jesus was born I saw the three
shepherds struck with the unusual aspect
of this marvellous night. Standing near
their cottages, they looked round and
observed with wonder an extraordinary
light above the Grotto of the Crib. I saw
also that the shepherds who were near
the tower were excited. I saw them
mount the scaffolding and look towards
the side of the Grotto of the Crib. While
the three shepherds had their eyes turned
towards heaven, I saw a luminous cloud
descend before them. As it came near I
92 Ube 1Rattv>it£ of
observed a movement. I saw forms and
figures become visible, and I heard har
monious songs of a joyful kind, and
which became more and more distinct.
The shepherds were at first afraid ; but
an angel appeared before them and said :
" Fear not ; I come to announce to you
great joy for all the people of Israel : for
to-day is born for you in the city of David
a Saviour who is Christ the Lord. And
this is the sign by which you shall know
Him : you shall find an infant wrapped
in swaddling clothes, and laid in a
manger." Whilst the angel announced
this the splendour increased all around
him, and I saw six or seven large figures
of angels, beautiful and shining. They
had in their hands something like a long
streamer, whereon was written something
in large letters of the size of a hand, and
I heard them praise God and sing :
" Glory to God in the highest heavens,
©ur XorD 3C9U9 Gbnst. 93
and on earth peace to men of good
will."
The shepherds of the town had the
same apparition, but a little later. The
angels also appeared to a third group of
shepherds near a fountain, situated three
leagues from Bethlehem to the east of the
Shepherd's Tower. I did not see the shep
herds go immediately to the Grotto of the
Crib, from which one part of them were
a league and a half distant, and the others
double that distance.
The Sister saw during the night of the
Nativity many things touching the precise
determination of the time of the birth of
Christ ; but her state of sickness and the
visits which were paid to her on the day
following, which was the festival of St.
Catherine, her patron Saint, caused her to
forget a good deal. However, a short
time afterwards, being in an ecstasy, she
communicated some fragments of her
Zlfoe IFlativntp ot
visions, when it is remarkable that she
always saw the numbers written in Roman
letters, and that she had often difficulty in
reading them ; but she explained them,
repeating the name of the letters in the
order in which she saw them, or she
traced them with her fingers : this time,
however, she told the numbers.
You can read it, she said, it is marked
there. Jesus Christ was bom before the
year of the world 3997 was ended ; after
wards the four years, less a portion of a year,
which elapsed between the Nativity and
the end of the year 4000 were forgotten,
for subsequently they have made our new
era commence four years later.
One of the Consuls of Rome was then
named Lentutus : he was the ancestor of
St. Moses, priest and martyr, of whom I
have here a relic, and who lived in the
time of St. Cyprien. Also the Lentutus
who became the friend of St. Peter in
(SHir Xor& Jesus Cbrtst. 95
Rome was descended from him. Herod
had reigned forty years. During seven of
those years he was not independent, but
he already oppressed the country and
practised great cruelty. He died, if I
mistake not, in the sixth year of the life of
Jesus. I believe that his death was kept
secret for some time. He was sanguinary
up to the time of his death, and in his last
days did much evil. I saw him drag him
self along into a large room all cushioned.
He had a lance at hand and tried to strike
those who came near him. Jesus was born
a little before the thirty-fourth year of his
reign. Two years before Mary entered
the Temple, Herod made some erections
in it. It was not a new Temple which he
made, only changes and decorations. The
flight into Egypt took place when Jesus
was nine months old, and the Massacre of
the Innocents when He was still in His
second year. She mentioned also several
96 Ube 1RatiY>it\? of
circumstances and several facts from the
life of Herod which show how she saw
everything in detail ; but it was impossible
to put into order what she had related at
broken intervals.
The birth of Jesus Christ took place in
a year in which the Jews reckon thirteen
months. It is an arrangement analagous
to that of our bissextile years. I believe
also that the Jews have twice in the year
months of twenty and twenty-two days. I
understood something of this in reference
to their festival days, but of this I have
only a confused recollection. I remarked
also that several times they made changes
in the calendar. This was at the time of
their coming out of the captivity, when they
were working at the Temple. I saw the
man who changed the calendar and I have
known his name.
(SHu* Xovfc Jesus Christ. 97
ADORATION OF THE SHEPHERDS.
SUNDAY, the 25th of November. — At the
first break of day the three principal shep
herds came from their little hill to the
Grotto of the Crib, with the presents which
they had prepared. They were little animals
very much resembling roe deer : if they
were small goats they differed from those
of our country. They had long necks
and beautiful shining eyes ; they were
very graceful and nimble in their pace.
The shepherds led them along attached
to thin cords : they also carried on their
shoulders birds which they had killed, and
other birds under their arms of a larger
size.
They knocked timidly at the door of
the Grotto of the Crib and Joseph came
to meet them. They repeated to him
what the angels had announced to them,
and told him that they were come to pay
their homage to the infant of promise
6
98 Ube IRatixnts of
and to present Him with their offerings.
Joseph accepted their presents with
humble gratitude, and conducted them to
the Blessed Virgin, who was sitting near
the crib and holding the Infant Jesus on
her knees. The three shepherds knelt
down humbly and remained a long time
in silence absorbed in feelings of inde
scribable joy. They afterwards sang the
canticle which they had heard the angels
sing and a psalm which I have forgotten.
When they wished to retire the Blessed
Virgin gave them the little Jesus, whom
they held in their arms one after another.
Then, weeping, they gave Him back to
her and quitted the grotto.
Sunday, the 25th of November, in the
evening. — The Sister was during the
whole of this day in great suffering,
both physical and mental. This even
ing, being just asleep, she found herself
transported to the Promised Land ; as,
'& 3esus Christ. 99
independently of her contemplations of
the Nativity, she had besides a series
of visions on the first year of the ministry
of Jesus, and precisely at the same time
on the fast of forty days she exclaimed
with naive astonishment : " Ah, how
touching is this ! I see on one side
Jesus at the age of thirty years fasting
and tempted by the devil in a cavern
of the desert ; and on the other side I
saw Him a new-born babe, adored by
the shepherds in the Grotto of the Crib."
After these words she rose from her bed
with surprising rapidity, ran to the opened
door of her chamber, and as if intoxicated
with joy, called the friends who were in
the anteroom, saying to them : " Come,
come quickly, and adore the infant who is
near me." She then returned to her bed
with the same rapidity, and began, whilst
her face shone with enthusiasm and fer
vour, to sing in a clear and marvellously
ioo ZTbe ttattoftg of
expressive voice the Magnificat, the Gloria
in Excelsis, and other unknown canticles
in a simple style of profound meaning
and partly in rhyme. She sang the
seconds also of one of these airs.
There appeared in her an emotion of
joy singularly touching. This is what
she related on the following morning :
Yesterday evening many shepherds,
with their wives and even their children,
came from the Shepherd's Tower, which
is four leagues from the grotto. They
brought birds, eggs, honey, skeins of
thread of different colours, small packets
resembling raw silk, and bouquets of a
plant resembling the rush, and which
had large leaves. This plant had ears
full of large grains. When they had
given their presents to Joseph they
humbly approached the crib and, kneel
ing, they sang some very beautiful psalms
— the Gloria in Excelsis and some short
Xorfc Jesus Cbrist. IQI
canticles I sang with them. They sang
in several parts, and in one of these I
took the second. I remember very
nearly the following words : " Oh, little
infant, red as the rose, you appear as
the messenger of peace." When they
took leave they bent over the crib,
as if they embraced the little Jesus.
Monday, the 26th of November. — I
saw to-day the three shepherds assist in
turn St. Joseph to arrange everything con
veniently in the Grotto of the Crib and in
the side grottos. I saw also near the
Blessed Virgin several pious women, who
rendered her different services. They
were Esseniens, who lived a short distance
from the Grotto of the Crib, in a hollow
situated to the south of the hill. They
occupied near together a sort of chambers
hollowed in the rock, some distance from
the ground. They had small gardens
near their houses, and instructed the
102 tlbe Iflatfvfts ot
children of their sect. It was St. Joseph
who had induced them to come. He
knew this society ever since his youth ;
for when he fled from his brothers to the
Grotto of the Crib he had more than once
visited these pious women. They came
one after another to the Blessed Virgin,
bringing small quantities of provisions,
and busied themselves with the cares of
the household for the Holy Family.
Tuesday, the 2yth of November.—
This day I saw a very touching scene in
the Grotto of the Crib. Joseph and Mary
were standing near the crib, and looking
on the Infant Jesus with deep tenderness.
All at once the ass threw himself on his
knees and bent his head to the ground.
Mary and Joseph shed tears. This even
ing a message came from St. Anne. An
old man came from Nazareth with a widow
relative of St. Anne, and who was her
servant. They brought several little
Gbrtet 103
things for Mary. They were very much
moved at the sight of the infant ; the
old servant man shed tears of joy. They
soon set out on their way to carry the
news to St. Anne. The female servant
remained with the Blessed Virgin.
Wednesday, the 28th of November. —
To-day I saw the Blessed Virgin with the
Infant Jesus and the servant leave the
Grotto of the Crib for several hours. I
saw her conceal herself in the side grotto,
where a spring of water had burst forth
after the birth of Jesus Christ. She re
mained nearly four hours in this grotto,
where subsequently she spent two days.
Joseph, at the break of day, had so ar
ranged it that she could stay there without
great inconvenience. They went there in
consequence of an inward admonition
that several persons would come to-day
from Bethlehem to the Grotto of the Crib.
I believe they were emissaries of Herod.
io4 TTbe IRativftE ot
In consequence of the shepherds' con
versation, the report had spread about
that something miraculous had taken
place at this spot at the time of the birth
of a child. I saw these men exchange
words with St. Joseph, whom they found
before the grotto with the shepherds ; and
they left him sneeringly when they had
seen his poverty and simplicity. The
Blessed Virgin, after having remained
about four hours in this side grotto,
returned to the crib with the Infant
Jesus.
The Grotto of the Crib enjoyed a sweet
tranquillity. Nobody came from Bethle
hem ; the shepherds alone were in com
munication with it. The apparition to
the shepherds at the hour of the birth
of Jesus had caused that all the good
people of the valleys had heard speak
of the marvellous child of promise. They
came now to honour the infant.
(SHir Xorfc Sesus Gbrtst. 105
Friday, the 3oth of November. — To
day many shepherds and other good
people came to the Grotto of the Crib
and honoured the Infant Jesus with
great emotion.
When everybody was gone away for
the synagogue of Bethlehem, Joseph got
ready in the grotto the lamp for the Sab
bath, which had seven wicks, lighted it,
and placed it on a little table on which
were scrolls containing prayers, and under
this lamp he celebrated the Sabbath with
the Blessed Virgin and the servant of St.
Anne.
Monday, the 3rd of December. — This
evening I saw Elizabeth come from Juttah
to the Grotto of the Crib, riding on an ass,
which was led by an old servant. Mary
and she embraced with feelings of in
expressible joy. She pressed the Infant
Jesus to her heart, shedding tears. The
Blessed Virgin related to her cousin every-
thing which had happened to her up to
the present time, and when she spoke of
what she had suffered in seeking for a
lodging at Bethlehem Elizabeth wept with
all her heart.
During the preceding days I have often
seen Mary show her child to some visitors
covered with a veil and quite naked, with
the exception of the cloth round His body.
At other times I have seen Him com
pletely swathed.
THE END.
BURNS AND OATES, LTD., PRINTERS, LONDON, W.
EMMERICH, A.C.
The Nativity.
BC
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